Walden University, Counseling During the Initial Stages of a Psychopharmacological Intervention. The purpose of this assignment is to review a provided case study, evaluate the client’s depressive symptoms and provide potential medications that may be prescribed by a psychiatrist to treat these symptoms. Additionally, the role of the counselor during the initial stages of the psychopharmacological intervention will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of educating the client regarding potential side effects that may occur while starting the antidepressant medication. Lastly, possible challenges that are likely to arise during the implementation and initial stages of a psychopharmacological approach, as well as strategies for addressing these challenges, will be defined. Summary of Case Study. For the purpose of this assignment, the author was asked to select a case study to review three provided options. The case study selected is the case of John. John is a biracial middle-aged man. He is now coming to counseling due to concerns regarding his decreasing mood. He is also concerned as he has begun to have little interest in eating and increased difficulty falling, staying asleep. John is also experiencing a lower drive to do things he once found enjoyable such as spending time with family. John is currently single with no children. He has a tight-knit family that relies on him for assistance with childcare. John lives within a home that he owns and is able to maintain his needs through the finical gains of his employment as a handyman. Symptoms Indicating Depression. When assessing a client for depression it is critical to look at the symptoms that are present during the client intake and initial assessment.
